Andhra University forms peace panel to resolve clashes between student groups

Visakhapatnam: Amid ongoing clashes and protests over the past week between AISF/SFI and ABVP-RSS groups on the campus of Andhra University, the university has constituted a special peace committee to resolve the dispute between the two factions. The peace committee meeting was attended by vice-chancellor prof GP Rajasekhar, rector prof P King, RDO Sudha Sagar, and East ACP Lakshmana Murthy, who interacted with representatives of the student groups."The committee heard the arguments and objections presented by both sides. Student representatives were asked to submit relevant videos and documentary evidence pertaining to the dispute to the registrar by Monday afternoon. Representatives of SFI–AISF and ABVP presented their petitions and concerns, which were reviewed by the peace committee members. The committee will reconvene on March 2 to deliver its final decision. Both student groups have been directed to abide by the committee's verdict. Until the decision is announced, the groups have been strictly instructed not to organise any programmes, dharnas, or protests on the university campus. All concerned have been asked to adhere to these directions," AU officials said. RDO Sudha Sagar advised students to refrain from involving themselves in disputes, cautioning that such issues could adversely affect their future. She stressed the importance of preserving an academic atmosphere and encouraged students to focus on their careers. He assured that the committee would deliver an impartial decision and urged all parties to respect it. Speaking to the media after the meeting, vice-chancellor prof GP Rajasekhar appealed to students to maintain harmony and avoid engaging in conflicts. He reiterated that no protests should be held at present and stressed the need for restraint to ensure peace on campus. He said that maintaining campus harmony is a collective responsibility. The VC further clarified that non-boarders would not be permitted to stay in the university. "Two notices have already been issued in this regard, and the process of sending non-boarders out has commenced. Disciplinary action will also be taken against students who provide accommodation to non-boarders," he said.Registrar prof K Rambabu, principals, deans, and other senior officials attended the meeting.